The Modulatory Effects of Pinocembrin from the Nigerian Propolis on IL-6, IL-1β, and Adipokines in Rats with Chronic Glucose and Fructose Administration
Abstract
Objective: The study investigated the effects of pinocembrin on cytokines and the adipokines associated with metabolic disturbances that arise from prolonged sugar intake.
Material and Methods: Twenty-four male Wistar rats were divided into 4 groups: control, glucose/fructose administration, glucose/fructose administration plus pinocembrin treatment, and glucose/fructose administration plus metformin treatment. The control group was administered distilled water orally, while the glucose/fructose group received an oral sugar solution comprising 30% glucose and 20% fructose. The pinocembrin and metformin treatment groups were given the same sugar solution, but received either pinocembrin or metformin as an additional component, respectively. Administration continued for 8 weeks, after which blood samples were collected for biochemical analysis.
Results: Chronic administration of glucose and fructose led to the dysregulation of adipokines and inflammatory markers, hyperinsulinemia and hyperglycaemia. However, treatment with pinocembrin significantly mitigated these metabolic and inflammatory alterations.
Conclusion: The findings suggest that the prophylactic use of pinocembrin from the Nigerian propolis has the potential to modulate glucose and lipid metabolism, as well as inflammatory pathways, thereby preventing sugar-induced metabolic disturbances.
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